Donations sought for Dress to Impress event at MSSU

Feb 21, 2019

Donations of gently used men’s and women’s professional clothing are still being accepted for the fifth annual Dress to Impress event at Missouri Southern State University.

The event – sponsored by the university’s Career Services office and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professionals Network – allows students to start or expand their professional wardrobe to prepare for the upcoming Spring Career Fair and their careers.

“People can bring clothing and other items directly to Career Services in Spiva Library, or to the chamber at 320 E. Fourth St.,” said Alex Gandy, director of Career Services.

“Clothing in medium or large sizes is always needed. We ran out of those sizes last year. Jewelry and shoes are always a big need, as they can be relatively expensive for students. Financial donations are also welcome. Last year, we used funds that were donated to purchase gift cards for students to use.”

Another important element essential to the success of Dress to Impress are volunteers, said Gandy.

“Our volunteer shoppers are so important,” he said. “It’s an opportunity for mentoring and coaching … helping students understand what an employer is expecting in terms of professional dress in the workplace.

The event will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 13, in Billingsly Student Center’s Connor Ballroom.

“The three-hour block between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. is when we’ll have the highest volume of students,” said Gandy. That’s when we’ll need the most volunteers.

Donations can be delivered to Career Services or the chamber office through Friday, March 8.

Those interested in volunteering to help set up for the event or serve as a personal shopper can sign up at the following links: